5 Must-Know Tips for Taking Down Christmas Decor 2019
As the holiday season wraps up and the new year approaches, taking down Christmas decorations can feel like a daunting task. However, with a few strategic tips, you can transform this chore into an enjoyable part of your end-of-season rituals. Here are five must-know tips for efficiently and joyfully dismantling your holiday setup in 2019.
1. Plan Your Time and Space
Before you begin dismantling your festive decor, take some time to plan:
- Set aside a specific day or days to take down the decorations. This planning helps to prevent the task from dragging on indefinitely.
- Assess the space you have for storing your decorations. If you need more, consider alternative storage solutions like under-bed storage or additional closet space.
Planning not only streamlines the process but also ensures you have everything ready to store your decorations properly, reducing the likelihood of damage or clutter.
2. Start with the Big Items
Begin by removing the largest and most visually dominant items like:
- Christmas Trees: Whether real or artificial, they take up significant space. Carefully remove ornaments and lights before disassembling or disposing of the tree.
- Outdoor Displays: Lights, wreaths, and other lawn ornaments should be the next to go. These items are usually weather-resistant but can still be affected by elements over time.
đź’ˇ Note: For artificial trees, ensure you store them in a dry place to avoid mold growth.
3. Organize as You Pack
Decor Type | Storage Method |
---|---|
Ornaments | Individual boxes or compartmentalized storage to prevent breakage |
Christmas Lights | Reel or wind them properly to prevent tangles |
Wreaths and Garlands | Flat storage boxes or wreath storage bags |
Small Decorative Items | Labeled bins or drawers for easy identification |
Organizing your decorations as you pack them not only saves time next year but also helps in preventing any damage. Make sure to:
- Wrap fragile items in tissue paper or bubble wrap.
- Use storage solutions that fit the shape and size of your decorations.
🔍 Note: Label your storage boxes clearly. This will make setting up next year's decorations much easier.
4. Disposal and Recycling
The holiday cleanup isn’t just about packing away; it’s also about responsible disposal:
- Check local waste management guidelines for real Christmas tree disposal. Some communities have recycling programs or mulch services.
- Recycle any packaging from your decorations, ensuring that cardboard, plastic, and paper are sorted correctly.
- Donate or repurpose items that are still in good condition but you no longer need.
♻️ Note: Many cities have special collection days for holiday waste, so check your local schedule.
5. Reflect and Document
After you’ve put away the last ornament, take some time to:
- Reflect on your holiday experience. What worked well this year? What could be improved?
- Take photos of your holiday setup before taking everything down. This can be useful for planning next year’s decorations or sharing with others.
Concluding your festive season with these reflections not only preserves memories but also provides valuable insights for future holiday decorations.
By following these steps, you can make the end of the holiday season as special and organized as the beginning. Efficiently storing your decorations ensures that they remain in good condition for the next year, while thoughtful disposal practices contribute to environmental sustainability. As you pack away the last of the tinsel, remember that this process isn't just about ending a season; it's about preserving the joy and anticipation for the next one.
When is the best time to take down Christmas decorations?
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Traditionally, the Twelfth Night, which falls on January 5th or 6th, is considered the end of the Christmas season. However, you can take down decorations anytime within the first two weeks of January or after the New Year, depending on personal or cultural traditions.
How should I store my artificial Christmas tree?
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Ensure your artificial tree is completely dry before storing it in a dry, cool place. Use the original box or a tree storage bag to prevent dust and to keep it in good shape for the next use.
What can I do with my live Christmas tree after the holidays?
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You can recycle your live Christmas tree by chipping it for mulch or compost, donating it for animal habitat enrichment, or if allowed, burning it for bonfire wood. Check your local community’s recycling programs or disposal guidelines.
How can I keep my holiday lights untangled?
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Use a reel or wind lights around a piece of cardboard or your arm, ensuring each bulb has enough space to prevent bending or crushing. Keep lights in a separate, labeled container or use a storage bag with compartments.
Can I reuse wrapping paper from gifts?
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If the wrapping paper is in good condition, you can smooth it out and save it for future use. Alternatively, recycle it or use it for crafts like making garlands or scrapbooking.